Post by Barr Tulip on Oct 31, 2013 8:36:19 GMT -5
Arms play an important role in the culture of the Cheltian Nation. They have a special symbolic significance, especially among the Birn, Barr and Char castes.
Arms are not permitted to be carried in camp or settlements unless you are a member of the Barr or Birn castes. The Barr carry more ornate weapons, though no particular type is specified. Similarly, Birn carry functional weapons with them that vary depending on available technology, raw materials and manufacturing expertise.
The discharge of a weapon in anger is considered a spiritual event. The caste hierarchy has divine ordinance, and the existence of the soldier and warrior castes derive from the idea that the wilful taking of life is something acceptable to the gods, but an event that is within their purview.
In the Rite of Transition for Birn and Barr, the young adults receive weapons. On the other hand, in the Rite of Transition for the Char, the initiates receive a customary mace which they must break in two to signify their moral strength (as upper class Cheltians) but their rejection of force as upholders of the law. Some Char take a vow of celibacy and become guardians of weapons caches.
Arms are not permitted to be carried in camp or settlements unless you are a member of the Barr or Birn castes. The Barr carry more ornate weapons, though no particular type is specified. Similarly, Birn carry functional weapons with them that vary depending on available technology, raw materials and manufacturing expertise.
The discharge of a weapon in anger is considered a spiritual event. The caste hierarchy has divine ordinance, and the existence of the soldier and warrior castes derive from the idea that the wilful taking of life is something acceptable to the gods, but an event that is within their purview.
In the Rite of Transition for Birn and Barr, the young adults receive weapons. On the other hand, in the Rite of Transition for the Char, the initiates receive a customary mace which they must break in two to signify their moral strength (as upper class Cheltians) but their rejection of force as upholders of the law. Some Char take a vow of celibacy and become guardians of weapons caches.